Forgiveness

Forgiveness can be a tough issue for a lot of people.  There are a lot of times it can be hard to go to someone we have done wrong to and ask for their forgiveness.  For a lot of people, this is one of the hardest things to do.  But for many others, I think there is something even harder to do; give forgiveness.

How many time has there been someone who has done something to you that hurt or upset you, and when they came to you and asked for forgiveness, you really didn't want to hear it or give it to them.  I know I have been there.  It is hard when you've been hurt.  We feel betrayed, vulnerable, and sometimes anger.  But do you know what the bible says about this.

Matthew 6:15- "But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Wow.  If you can't forgive someone, God can't forgive you.  Does that change your mind about forgiving someone?  This just shows the importance of being able to give forgiveness. 

We are suppose to be a representation of Christ to a world that doesn't know Him.  What a way to show the love of Christ, by being able to forgive someone that others never would.

There is a part in a new song by TobyMac that spoke volumes to me and out the act of forgiveness in a different light for me.

"But those forgiven much , should be quicker to give it
And God forgave me for it all, Jesus bled forgiveness
So when the stones fly and they aimed at you
Just say forgive them, father, they know not that they do"

God, who didn't have to forgive us when we decided to sin against him, forgave us of our sins.  Jesus died for us so we wouldn't have to pay for our sins.  If God was able to forgive us completely, so we should be able to then give forgiveness to a person who has done wrong by us. 

Being able to forgive someone is such a beautiful picture of the grace and mercy of Christ.  Action speak louder than words.  Sometimes we can preach the word over and over to someone and they won't get it, but a simple act, like forgiving someone, can paint the picture of salvation better than our words can.

Is there someone you need to give forgiveness to?  Don't wait another day to accept it.  Life is too short to carry the anger, the hurt, the bitterness in your heart.  Give forgiveness, and show the love of Christ.